GXO logistics drivers employed on the NHS supply chain contract will stage five separate walkouts across England beginning October 13, the Unite union announced. The strikes are scheduled for October 13-15, 20-22, 27-29 and November 3-5 and 10-12.
Union members rejected a 4% pay offer from GXO, which operates the NHS supply chain contract for Supply Chain Coordination Limited, a wholly NHS England-owned entity. Strike action involves depots in Derbyshire, Somerset, West Yorkshire, Kent, Warwickshire, Suffolk and Tyne and Wear.
The drivers transport medical supplies including bandages, dressings, gowns, gloves and needles to hospitals across England. Unite regional officer Phil Silkstone said the union rejected GXO's offer as insufficient. "There is still time for strike action to be avoided but that will require a deal our members can accept," Silkstone said. He described the drivers as "dedicated workers" and accused GXO of refusing to table a reasonable counteroffer.
GXO and NHS Supply Chain said they held "robust contingency plans" to limit service disruption during the walkouts. A GXO spokesperson stated the 4% pay offer was fair and said "Patient care remains of paramount importance, and we remain focused on providing a safe and effective operation throughout this period."
The strikes risk supply delays across England's hospital network during a period when NHS trusts face sustained demand. NHS logistics disruptions can compound waiting times and capacity pressures across multiple departments, from emergency care to planned procedures.
GXO and the union indicated further negotiation remains possible before the October start date. Unite has not disclosed the union's pay demand or other conditions under dispute beyond the salary component.